THE INTERVIEW

The interview is probably the time in the application process when the student experiences the most anxiety.  There is a big difference between dropping an essay in the mail and sitting five feet from someone looking at you in the face.  Interviews can play an important role in the application process at some schools, especially at the smaller and more selective colleges.  Being nervous is expected and understandable, but the truth is, there is little to be nervous about.  It would take a lot of work to "blow" an interview completely.  Unless you are very shy and uncomfortable, they almost always will work in your favor.  Any personal contact you have with a representative from the admission office strengthens your application and makes it more "real."  Take advantage of your interviews and get one whenever you can.  There are several different types of interviews:


Alumni Interviews -- Many colleges, so overwhelmed by the numbers of applicants in recent years, have stopped offering interviews by members of their admission staffs.  Instead, the schools farm out their interviews to trained alumni who live in your area. For some colleges, this is a required part of the application process and for others it is an option.  The alumnus will usually contact you a couple of weeks after the admission office receives your application. Meetings often take place at the office of the interviewer or in some cases, at your home.  Approach these interviews as conversations. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about the school.  If you can manage to keep the control of the conversation (not in a forceful way), then you leave yourself less open to feeling out of control. Some interviewers will, however, have a list of questions which they are expected to ask.  Whether they say the interview will "count" or not, you can be sure that your interviewer will send a report back to the school and that this report will become a part of your application file.

Group Interviews -- Many colleges, in conjunction with their campus tour, offer group interviews for many prospective students at one time.  This is designed to be more of an information session and carries little evaluative weight.  At the same time, however, it would be easy to make a good or a bad impression depending on the questions you might ask, your appearance, and other factors.

On-campus Personal Interviews -- If it is possible, getting a personal interview with an admission officers the most desired type of interview.  These are conducted in the admission office and usually take about 45 minutes.  While the interview is chance for you to learn more about the school through hearing about it and asking questions, the primary purpose of this type of interview is evaluative.  Even so, if the interview develops into a relaxed conversation, this is usually a good sign.  Remember that it is alright to politely express a difference of opinion or to say that you do not know something if you do not.

Interviewing tips to keep in mind -- Regardless of the type of interview, you should keep the following points in mind:

• Schedule your interview well enough in advance if you are seeking one at the school.

• Do your homework before the interview.  Review the school's literature and know the basics about the institution.

• Arrive at least fifteen minutes before your scheduled interview time so that you are not rushed or late.

• Do not take your parents with you into the actual interview.  If they have accompanied you, they should wait elsewhere.  If they have questions, and it is fine if they do, they should ask them after the interview has concluded.

• Dress neatly and cleanly.  If in doubt, dress conservatively.  Do not try to overly impress with your appearance.

• Do not bring "stuff" with you to the interview.  This is a chance to talk.  The only exception is the possibility of your wanting to have available a copy of your transcript.

• During the interview, be honest; be YOURSELF.  Listen and take time to reflect.  Try to be energetic and enthusiastic.  Make eye contact and use a firm handshake.

• Know the name of the person who interviewed you and send a brief thank-you note within a few days of your interview.

• Express yourself well and clearly and demonstrate self-confidence and maturity.